my gas tank has a hole

96 jimmy 4dr 4wd 4.3 liter-- i just relaced the fuel pump and while cleaning and inspecting I found a hole that is 1/16in wide and 3/16in long- on the sideof the tank on the driver's side, on the upper half - a 1/2in above the lip that joins the upper and lower halves of the tank. I sprayed the top and sides with rust converter, and the bottom and pas. side had undercoating.


What shoud I do to fix it? my guess is epoxy or jb weld or do I have to take it to a shop to get it welded. thanx

Buy a new tank and this is the cheapest fix instead of putting on JB Weld,or epoxy.The tank rusts out and leak.Do not get it welded,a possible explosion and kill someone.A guy in my area used a torch cutting a 55 gallon drum that had race fuel in it although it was empty with fumes,exploded and killed him last year.

Ya it's probably a lost cause. JB Weld could provide a temporary fix, but I'd look around for a tank from a junkyard...While you're there you can snoop around for shield/skid plate for the fuel tank which was offered as an option from the factory. I enjoy the peace of mind mine offers.

Junkyard tank might be worse than the one you have, not worth taking a chance. You can get a brand new tank with a guarantee, for under $150US, end of problem!

I've brazed up gas tanks in the past, not easy but doable. If you have no experience in doing this type of repair, have a pro do it (most radiator shops will do it) or buy a new tank.

Bob

believe it or not, rubbing a dry bar of soap on the leak will temporarily stop it from leaking. A little something you can do to hold you til you replace the tank.

If the soap trick doesn't work, there is a plumber's crayon that works on tank leaks. Not sure if home centers have them, but plumbing supply stores will for sure.

Bob

I've used a large faucet washer and self tapping metal screw for a temporary fix. I would order a new tank. This should last until your tank arrives. The price of fuel don't waste it.

The soap that works is called fells napa can be bought at most food stores . take the bar and shave off a lot the thinner the better , them mix with water till it becomes a past , then put over hole/ rust , a good amount . This will stop all leaks for at least 6 months , as it is just a temporary fix . hope this helps Mike